House Histories: The Secrets Behind Your Front Door

In House Histories, Britain’s leading house historian uncovers the hidden stories and secrets of ordinary and extraordinary houses across the country. The wide range of houses, from workers’ cottages to aristocratic mansions, offers a unique insight into our social and architectural history. Tudor farmhouses, Georgian town houses, modernist twentieth century designs and converted factories all have a tale to tell. From homes once occupied by famous figures such as H.G. Wells and Benjamin Disraeli to details of the daily lives of ordinary people living in railway and fishermen’s cottages, the reader is taken through the centuries of change experienced by each house, exploring past occupants and architectural alterations. As a nation we are obsessed by property: prices, interior design and restoration, and the creation of a home. Now there is another avenue to explore: your house’s history. House Histories helps readers get started by outlining the main research sources and how to use them. AUTHOR: Melanie Backe-Hansen is a House Historian and writes a regularly for various magazines and newspapers. She has also featured on numerous TV and radio programmes. This is her first book. She lives in London. 150 colour illustrations